Manmohan Singh offers help to landslide-hit Afghanistan

New Delhi, May 3: Prime Minister

Saturday expressed shock at a devastating

in

that claimed over 2,000 lives and offered India's assistance in relief and rehabilitation efforts.

"I am deeply shocked and saddened by the devastating natural disaster that has struck Badakhshan province in Afghanistan," he said in a statement here.

"The people of India stand with their Afghan friends in grieving for those who have perished or are missing. Our thoughts and prayers are with them in this hour of pain and sorrow. We know that the Afghan people will face up to this tragedy with their unmatched courage and fortitude.

Over 2,000 people have been killed in the devastating landslide

"India stands ready to provide whatever assistance and support that we can for rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts to help the victims of this enormous disaster," the prime minister said.

Afghan rescue officials said over 2,000 people were killed in Friday's landslide, triggered by the recent heavy rains.

IANS